Degrees were conferred on over fifty students at Galen’s Ninth Commencement Exercise on Sunday. After the official welcome address the Director of International Division and Representative from the University of Indianapolis, Marilyn Chase pointed out that the Universities are celebrating ten years of partnership
MARILYN CHASE, University of Indianapolis
“When I first came to Belize ten years ago, I saw the promise of what could become; I see the fulfillment of that promise in the faces before me. As we gather to celebrate your commencement, you represent the very best of both our institutions; of both of our countries.”
The President of Galen University, Dr. Louis Zabaneh, highlighted Galen’s achievements and spoke of reforms at the University during his remarks
DR. LOUIS ZABANEH, President, Galen University
"You will walk out of this building knowing that your hard work, investment and dedication is acknowledged and is paid off. You will begin to take up the challenge of leading and building Belize. As leaders, you will carry yourself with dignity and act with integrity; you will show respect to others both in speech and in your actions. You already know that the one thing that characterizes a Galen student and graduate is a passionate commitment to the sustainable development of Belize. We, the Galen University Eagles are known for taking bold and innovative actions to build and uplift ourselves, our family, our community and our country.”
The Keynote Speaker for the event was Belize City’s Mayor Darrel Bradley who delighted the graduates with words of advice emphasizing the importance of values and taking chances.
DARRELL BRADLEY, Keynote Speaker/Mayor, Belize City
“Remember that every achievement in any life, no matter how small was the result of someone taking action and the only real regret in life is the regret that comes from never having tried. You will find many times that you get the opportunity to sit things out, never, ever sit it out; always dance. Make sure that you take every chance in life and every opportunity and make sure you live every moment of your life to its fullest.”
Words of encouragement on the way forward were also shared by Master’s in Business Administration Candidate Arnaldo Villas during his welcome address and by Bachelor of Science candidate Kara Menzies during the Closing Address.
ARNALDO VILLAS, MBA Candidate, Galen University
“We now stand together prepared to make a difference, beginning with our thoughts which become our words which become our actions which shape the future; not only our own future but the future belonging to those around us as well. Be aware of this and from those experiences take what you have learned to face life and say, ‘bring it on’.”
KARA MENZIES, B.Sc. in Accounting, Galen University.
“This is a crucial point in our lives when we are about to build on previous experiences and embark upon new ones. These experiences may be differ for each graduate but regardless of what the experience may be, I am extremely thankful to Galen University for providing us with the tools and support to building a better life.”
Dr. Louis Zabaneh presented the diplomas during the conferring of degrees. Degrees were conferred in the areas of Associate of Science, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Art and Master of Business Administration. Important during the ceremony was the presentation of awards to three recipients, they were football stars, Woodrow West and Ian Gaynair who received the Eagle Award and Jane Usher who was awarded the Doctor of Philosophy Degree for impacting the lives of Belizeans. Galen University has graduated over five hundred and fifty students since its inception. Reporting for Love News, I am Natalie Novelo.
The Ninth Commencement Ceremony was held at the Princess Hotel and Casino in Belize City.
